Nawlins’ reputation precedes itself, but if there’s one thing you take away from this read it has to be that you can drink in the street. It’s a little odd the first time your bartender asks if you want your drink “to go” but you won’t hesitate the second time you hear it. While most think of NOLA as semi-controlled mayhem, the city’s reputation as a culinary hub is well deserved. Trust us, when it’s time to board the plane for New Orleans be sure you’re hungry and thirsty because you’re going to get more than your fill of both food and drink.

PUT 'EM BACK

Rusty Nail

1100 Constance St, New Orleans, LA 70130

While the bar is slightly off the beaten path, your efforts are well rewarded with a private outdoor seating area often featuring live music. Do yourself a favor and order a Disco Lemonade... or 10.

The Bulldog Uptown

3236 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115

After a walk down the Garden District section of Magazine Street, stop in for a drink at the beer tap fountain of the Bulldog's outdoor patio. People watching, TV viewing and delicious beers are all worth the time spent.

Mahoney’s

3454 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115

What more can be said for a bar that has some of the city's best po boys AND tosses out buy backs like they're going out of style. After a meal and drinks, take a walk through the Garden District section of Magazine Street for some of the best shopping in the city.

GOOD EATS

Pesce

800 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Owned by famed NOLA chef Donald Link, Pesce's serving up some of the most delicious and creative seafood in a city long known for having access to some of the freshest in the country.

Grand Isle

575 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70130

While there are a lot of po boys in this city, Grand Isle is easily putting out the best shrimp po boy you're going to find. Grab a seat near the open air doors for some of the best seafood in the city.

Atchafalaya

901 Louisiana Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115

Hands down the best brunch spot in New Orleans. Arrive early and take advantage of the build your own Bloody Mary bar.

Ruby Slipper

multiple locations

Although located throughout the city, Ruby Slippers are all perfect for a quick brunch with delicious food. Be sure to try their signature eggs benny- we're particularly partial to the Eggs Cochon featuring apple braised pork debris on a buttermilk biscuit. Get there early as they fill up quickly around mid morning.

Cochon Butcher

930 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Le Pig Mac. Just imagine what the rest of the menu is like when their most famous dish is a Big Mac recreated with sausage patties. Cochon's less formal sibling is serving up some of the best food in the city. Try their take on a Muffaletta and any of their house cured sausages.

Central Grocery

923 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116

The originators of the Muffaletta are still doing it better than anyone else in the country. A stop in Central Grocery is a must for any first timer in NOLA.

Le Petite Grocery

4238 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115

Le Petite Grocery is the perfect spot for a "nicer" lunch or date night dinner. Every item on the list is amazing, but the Blue Crab Beignets are a must order.

Sucre

3025 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115

For a sweet nightcap, hit one of the city's several Sucre sweet shops for amazing gelato and some of the most inventive and delicious macarons in the country.

FILL YOUR BAG

French Market District

1008 N. Peters Street, New Orleans, LA 70116

Don’t go home empty handed. Walk the six blocks of stops and shops that make up the historic French Market District. You’ll be sure to pick up some nice duds or grab a gift for someone at home, or better yet yourself.

HANG YOUR HAT

The Saint Hotel

931 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112

The Saint's modern touch isn't what you'd expect in a history filled city like New Orleans, but the central location, clean and sleek interior and affordable prices make it the perfect spot to lay your head. Sitting on Canal you're able to easily make the quick jaunt in (and more importantly out of) the French Quarter, while also easily getting into the Garden and Warehouse Districts.

The Garden District

Everyone is going to try and tell you to stay near the French Quarter- do yourself a favor and instead stay in the Garden District where the best restaurants, bars and shops are all an easy walk. Look for any number of the small and boutique hotels in the neighborhood.

did we miss anything? Hit us up in the comments....

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